Category: Economy

African Americans
Stefi Mar

COMMENTARY: Professors Reflect on Black Progress, and What the Next Decade Demands

Where do Black communities in Minnesota and across the country stand today, and where are they headed? The Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder reached out to prominent Black academics to get their assessment. Looking back across the last several decades and forward to the next ten years, their responses were sobering, nuanced, and at times hopeful.

Bakersfield
Stefi Mar

How Solar Energy is Becoming a Wealth-Building Tool for Homeowners

Homeowners are using solar panels for wealth building, and it is working well. By lowering their utility bills, increasing property value, and reducing taxes, they can turn their roofs into investments. For Black homeowners, solar energy offers a path toward greater economic stability and long-term financial freedom.

African Americans
Stefi Mar

Homelessness Crisis Looms Large in Newsom’s May Budget Revision

Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposed 2026–27 May budget revision includes $500 million for the state’s Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention (HHAP) program, a reduction from the $1 billion allocations provided in previous funding rounds.

Bakersfield
Stefi Mar

Why Timeless Materials Still Influence Today’s Remodeling Trends

Remodeling trends influence your materials selection and the success of your home remodel. Options like hardwood flooring, natural stone countertops, and marble-inspired tile remain popular among homeowners looking to create spaces that feel both comfortable and stylish. These timeless materials also reduce the need for frequent updates, making them a cost-effective option in the long term.

Bakersfield
Stefi Mar

Why Noise is the Biggest Productivity Killer in Open Offices

Noise is one of, if not the biggest, workplace productivity killers in open office design, as the constant, uncontrollable disruptions it causes can impair workers’ concentration and increase stress levels. Whether it’s loud or subtle, it can also derail cognitive performance, further reducing productivity.

Bakersfield
Stefi Mar

Medical Office Design Mistakes That Cost New Practice Owners Before They See a Patient

Medical office design mistakes that can drain a new practice’s budget include suboptimal space planning, non-compliance with codes and standards, and poor patient flow. These errors push back launch dates, pile on change orders, and impact how patients feel from the moment they enter your facility to the time they leave.

Bakersfield
Stefi Mar

Mastering the Art of Home Downsizing: Strategies and Tips

More people are home downsizing to simplify their lives, cut ongoing costs, and move into spaces that feel easier to manage day to day. Success comes from planning ahead, decluttering with intention, and choosing a home that matches current priorities instead of past habits.

Bakersfield
Stefi Mar

Identity Theft Protection is No Longer Optional for Any American

If you want your data to be secure in the digital age, identity theft protection should be a top concern. Some of the most effective methods to protect personal information include using a password manager, multi-factor authentication, and more.

Bakersfield
Stefi Mar

Retirement Income Planning Mistakes That Leave Seniors Scrambling in Their Golden Years

As you enjoy your youth, you should think about retirement income planning. Many retirees face financial suffering because of some planning errors they made in their younger years, such as not considering longevity, ignoring inflation, or claiming Social Security too early. If you aren’t too careful, these mistakes can make it hard for you to enjoy your senior years.